Three local volleyball products college All-Americans

A banner volleyball season for Ohio University players Abby Gilleland and Kelly Lamberti got a little better Wednesday when the local duo received American Volleyball Coaches Association All-America honorable mention.

Gilleland (Marian Central) and Lamberti (Cary-Grove) helped the Bobcats to the Mid-American Tournament championship and an NCAA Tournament berth. Ohio lost to Michigan State in the first round and finished 27-6.

Lamberti, a 6-foot junior outside hitter, was the Northwest Herald Player of the Year in 2009 and 2010. Gilleland, a 5-0 sophomore setter, took that honor in 2011.

They are Ohio’s first players to make the AVCA list since 2009 and it’s the first time in school history two Bobcats made the list together.

“We're happy to have two All-Americans for the first time in our program's history,” Ohio coach Ryan Theis said. “Abby and Kelly have been so consistent for us over their careers at Ohio. It's great to see them recognized for their outstanding performances this season. They are model student-athletes both on and off the court and we are excited to have them back for another run at the MAC title next season.”

Gilleland was the MAC Player of the Year and MAC Setter of the Year. Lamberti joined Gilleland on the All-MAC first team.

Brauneis was one of five Gators to make one of the top three teams or honorable mention. She has 1,156 assists for the 28-4 Gators, which lost to Florida State in five games in the second round of the NCAA tournament.